in a statement that was released this morning, defense secretary leon panetta says that the u.s. is working with british and algerienne governments to assist what happens with the hostage crisis. also, that algerian helicopters and special forces stormed a gas plant where the hostages were being held. >> house republicans say that they may seek a short- term extension of the government's debt limit in the next few weeks, a move that would avoid an immediate default by the treasury. republican paul ryan provided no details on the duration of any extension or conditions that might be attached. he spoke as republicans sought to unify for this spring's budget struggles, looking for ways to maximize their leverage in talks with president barack obama over spending cuts. >> president obama is second inauguration is days away, but do not expect the same pageantry that you saw the first time around. only 900,000 people are attending which is have as many who attended in 2009. this year's preparations have been replete with rehearsals, withstand ends, playing the president, vice president